Differin cream or gel contains the active ingredient, adapalene, which is used to treat mild to moderate acne. Adapalene is classed as a third generation retinoid (a form of vitamin). It works to reduce inflammation and blackhead/whitehead formation by reducing the growth of the keratin surface skin cells that can block pores. Differin is ideal for daily use to treat and prevent acne breakouts.

Patient Information Leaflet (from EMC): https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/920/pil

Dosage

Wash and dry the acne affected areas and apply a thin layer of differin cream or gel to the affected areas once daily at bedtime. Do not apply differin near the eyes, lips, nostrils or on any broken skin. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after use.

Side effects include:

• itching
• dryness
• a warm/stinging sensation
• scaling
• redness or worsening of acne

However, this is usually just for the first couple of weeks of use and symptoms will start to settle with continued use. If any side effects get worse, please consult your doctor.